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Updated: Sep 30, 2026
High Throughput Microfluidic Rapid and Low Cost Prototyping Packaging Methods
Published on: December 23, 2013
Kinetically inert covalent adaptable networks enable holistic resource recovery from high-performance printed circuit
Haijun Hu1, Tanjie Song2, Xiping Chen1
1Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Advanced Organic Materials and Technologies, MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
Abstract:
The massive accumulation of electronic waste (e-waste) globally demands sustainable strategies for printed circuit boards (PCBs), a goal currently hindered by the pervasive use of irreversibly cured epoxy resins. Here, a kinetically inert covalent adaptable network (CAN) is designed for recyclable high-performance PCB based on gem-dimethyl dithioketal (gTK) epoxy resins. The gem-dimethyl effect significantly enhances the stability of gTK bonds through steric hindrance, kinetically blocking undesirable acidolysis and heat-induced exchange reactions. The fabricated gTKPCB satisfies the demanding commercial specifications, exhibiting robust thermomechanical stability (~ 220 °C), chemical resistance, and highly reliable electrical interconnection under long-term thermal conditions (105 °C, 90 d). Crucially, gTKPCBs undergo oxidation-specific degradation in H2O2 solution, enabling the direct, nondestructive recovery of high-purity copper (99.5%) and glass fibers, and the degraded resins as adhesives. Life cycle assessment confirms that this valorization approach significantly mitigates environmental impact compared to traditional metallurgical recovery processes. This work provides a powerful blueprint for sustainable transitions in the electronics industry and offers a holistic solution for e-waste recycling.
